It’s crucial to take tadalafil exactly as directed by a healthcare professional, which may include your doctor or pharmacist. Ensuring adherence to prescribed guidelines is vital for safety and efficacy.
If you possess a private prescription for tadalafil, it's important to read the accompanying literature very carefully, as the dosage instructions and medication strength can differ based on individual health circumstances.
Dosage and strength
Tadalafil is offered in various strengths: 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg tablets, allowing for flexibility in treatment.
Dose for erectile dysfunction
Generally, the standard initial dose of tadalafil for erectile dysfunction is set at 10mg, which you will take as needed. Please remember not to exceed one tablet within a 24-hour period to avoid potential side effects.
Your doctor may decide to modify your dosage based on your response to the medication and the frequency of use.
The effects of tadalafil can persist for over 24 hours; therefore, daily consumption of 10mg or 20mg tablets is generally discouraged.
For optimal results, sexual arousal is necessary alongside the medication.
Dose for benign prostate enlargement
In scenarios involving benign prostate enlargement, tadalafil is often prescribed at 2.5mg or 5mg doses, with 5mg considered the typical daily dosage.
If you are experiencing both benign prostate enlargement and erectile dysfunction, the advised dosage remains at 5mg.
Dose for pulmonary hypertension
For pulmonary hypertension, the typical prescription of tadalafil is for 20mg tablets, with an average daily dose set at 40mg — this means taking two 20mg tablets once every day.
If you have underlying kidney or liver conditions, your healthcare provider might initiate your treatment with a lower dose of 10mg or 20mg.
It’s essential to swallow the tablets entire with a glass of water or juice, while avoidance of grapefruit juice is advised due to possible interactions.
For erectile dysfunction, the recommendation is to consume 1 tablet at least 30 minutes before sexual activity.
When taking tadalafil for prostate enlargement, you may choose whether to take your tablet in the morning or the evening, but consistency in timing is encouraged.
The tablets prescribed for pulmonary hypertension may be larger, which can pose a swallowing challenge for some users.
If you forget to take it
If you happen to overlook a dose:
- For benign prostate enlargement – take the missed dose as soon as it comes to your attention and proceed with your regular dosing schedule.
- For pulmonary hypertension – take the missed dose within a period of 8 hours, if feasible. If that time has lapsed, skip the missed dose and continue with your usual schedule.
Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed one. If you frequently forget doses, think about setting a reminder or consulting with a pharmacist for inventive strategies to help you remember.
If you take too much
Exceeding the recommended amount of tadalafil can lead to various side effects, which may include:
- Severe headache
- Dizziness
- Indigestion
- Nasal congestion
- Visual disturbances (such as blurred vision)
Important advisory: Contact a healthcare provider right away if you have ingested more than the prescribed dosage of tadalafil.
- If you accidentally take more than the recommended dosage of tadalafil
Seek immediate professional medical advice or call your local emergency services for assistance.
Critical information:
Should you find yourself needing to visit an emergency room, do not attempt to drive. Arrange for someone to assist you or consider calling for an ambulance.
Be sure to take along the tadalafil packaging, any remaining tablets, along with a comprehensive list of other medications you are currently taking.